Now Reading: Former Nestle chief’s book says trust, not charisma, defines leadership
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Former Nestle chief’s book says trust, not charisma, defines leadership
Former Nestle chief’s book says trust, not charisma, defines leadership
In an interview with Times of India, former Nestle India CMD Suresh Narayanan says his new book 'Courage Under Fire' argues that great leadership is about trust, not charisma. He challenges India…
The Story in Brief
In an interview with Times of India, former Nestle India CMD Suresh Narayanan says his new book 'Courage Under Fire' argues that great leadership is about trust, not charisma. He challenges India Inc's obsession with pedigree and says clarity matters more than a magnetic personality.
Narayanan, who led Nestle through the Maggi crisis, says trust is built when purpose, values and authenticity converge. He also defends Gen Z's approach to work-life balance as deserving respect, not ridicule. The book draws on his 40-year career to offer perspectives on leadership, vulnerability, and crisis management.
The Indian Opinion
Many Indian companies still worship the 'larger-than-life' CEO, yet Narayanan's book reminds us that trust, not charisma, steered Nestle through the Maggi storm. The obsession with pedigree and executive presence often sidelines capable leaders from humble backgrounds. At the same time, the tendency to mock Gen Z's work-life balance ignores that they value authenticity over performance. The real test is whether India Inc will promote leaders based on clarity and trust, or continue to favour the 'mukhota' of charisma.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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